Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for dynamically provisioning computer components using a message platform communicatively coupled to a message generator, the method comprising: receiving, at an advanced message queue exchange of the message platform, a first computer message from the message generator indicating that a computer component should be commissioned, wherein the first computer message includes i) a network cluster to which the computer component should be added, ii) an environment for the computer component, iii) an action parameter indicating that the computer component should be added, and iv) a first routing key associated with a hardware queue of the message platform, and wherein the advanced message queue exchange is operable to receive and route computer messages between a plurality of computer systems; identifying, at the advanced message queue exchange, the first routing key from the first computer message; routing, based on the first routing key, the first computer message to the hardware queue of the message platform such that a hardware platform that is a customer of the hardware queue i) receives the first computer message and ii) automatically installs a service profile on the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the first computer message; receiving, at the advanced message queue exchange, a second computer message from the hardware platform, the second computer message generated at the hardware platform and including i) the network cluster, ii) the environment, iii) the action parameter, and iv) a second routing key associated with a virtualization queue of the message platform; identifying, at the advanced message queue exchange, the second routing key from the second computer message; routing, based on the second routing key, the second computer message to the virtualization queue of the message platform such that a virtualization platform that is a customer of the virtualization queue i) receives the second computer message and ii) automatically installs a host profile on the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the second computer message generated at the hardware platform; receiving, at the advanced message queue exchange, a third computer message from the virtualization platform, the third computer message generated at the virtualization platform; and routing the third computer message to the hardware queue of the message platform such that the hardware platform receives the third computer message, wherein the third computer message generated by the virtualization platform instructs the hardware platform to automatically power on the computer component.
This invention relates to dynamically provisioning computer components in a distributed computing environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently integrating new hardware into existing network clusters while ensuring proper configuration and activation. A message platform with an advanced message queue exchange serves as the central communication hub, facilitating the exchange of configuration instructions between a message generator, a hardware platform, and a virtualization platform. The process begins when the message generator sends a first computer message to the message queue exchange, specifying the target network cluster, environment, and action (e.g., adding a new component). The message includes a routing key that directs it to a hardware queue, where the hardware platform receives the message and installs a service profile on the new component based on the provided parameters. The hardware platform then generates a second message, which the exchange routes to a virtualization queue. The virtualization platform receives this message and installs a host profile on the component, ensuring compatibility with the specified environment. Finally, the virtualization platform sends a third message back to the hardware queue, instructing the hardware platform to power on the component. This automated workflow eliminates manual configuration steps, reducing deployment time and errors in large-scale computing environments.
2. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the computer component is a blade server.
A blade server is a compact, modular computing device designed for high-density data center environments. Traditional servers often occupy significant space and require extensive power and cooling infrastructure, leading to inefficiencies in large-scale computing environments. Blade servers address these challenges by integrating multiple server modules into a single chassis, reducing physical footprint and improving resource utilization. Each blade operates independently but shares common power, cooling, and networking resources within the chassis, enhancing scalability and manageability. This design allows data centers to deploy and maintain servers more efficiently while optimizing power consumption and cooling requirements. The modular nature of blade servers also simplifies upgrades and maintenance, as individual blades can be replaced or upgraded without disrupting the entire system. This approach is particularly beneficial in environments requiring high computational density, such as cloud computing, virtualization, and enterprise data processing. The shared infrastructure reduces costs and complexity while improving overall system performance and reliability.
3. A method in accordance with claim 1 , further comprising generating the first computer message at the message generator based on a comparison of a current workload to a current capacity of the network cluster.
A method for managing workload distribution in a network cluster involves generating a computer message to adjust workload allocation based on real-time performance metrics. The method monitors the current workload and capacity of the network cluster, comparing the two to determine whether adjustments are needed. If the workload exceeds the cluster's capacity, a message is generated to redistribute tasks or allocate additional resources. This ensures efficient utilization of network resources and prevents system overload. The method may also involve dynamically adjusting workload distribution in response to changes in network conditions, such as fluctuations in demand or resource availability. By continuously evaluating workload and capacity, the system maintains optimal performance and reliability. The approach is particularly useful in distributed computing environments where resource allocation must adapt to varying loads.
4. A method in accordance with claim 1 , further comprising generating the first computer message at the message generator based on detection of a faulty computer component in the network cluster.
A method for managing computer networks involves monitoring a network cluster to detect faulty components. When a faulty component is identified, a message generator creates a first computer message indicating the fault. This message is then transmitted to a central management system, which processes the information to determine the appropriate response. The central management system may then generate a second computer message to address the fault, such as triggering a diagnostic routine, alerting an administrator, or initiating a failover procedure. The system ensures continuous monitoring and automated responses to maintain network stability and performance. The method includes detecting hardware or software failures within the cluster, generating alerts, and executing predefined actions to mitigate issues. The approach enhances system reliability by proactively identifying and resolving faults before they escalate. The central management system consolidates fault data, analyzes trends, and coordinates corrective measures across the network. This automated fault detection and response mechanism reduces manual intervention, minimizes downtime, and improves overall network efficiency. The system is designed for scalability, allowing integration with various network configurations and fault detection protocols.
5. A system for dynamically provisioning computer components, the system comprising: a message platform communicatively coupled to a message generator, the message platform comprising a processor in communication with a memory area, the message platform configured to: receive, at an advanced message queue exchange of the message platform, a first computer message from the message generator indicating that a computer component should be decommissioned, wherein the first computer message includes i) a network cluster from which the computer component should be removed, ii) an environment for the computer component, iii) an action parameter indicating that the computer component should be removed, and iv) a first routing key associated with a virtualization queue of the message platform, and wherein the advanced message queue exchange is operable to receive and route computer messages between a plurality of computer systems; identify, at the advanced message queue exchange, the first routing key from the first computer message; route, based on the first routing key, the first computer message to the virtualization queue of the message platform such that a virtualization platform that is a customer of the virtualization queue i) receives the first computer message and ii) automatically removes a host profile from the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the first computer message, wherein the first computer message causes the virtualization platform to: select and evacuate the host profile from the computer component; shut down the computer component; and remove a dynamic host configuration protocol reservation and auto deploy rules from the computer component; receive, at the advanced message queue exchange, a second computer message from the virtualization platform, the second computer message generated at the virtualization platform and including i) the network cluster, ii) the environment, iii) the action parameter, and iv) a second routing key associated with a hardware queue of the message platform; identify, at the advanced message queue exchange, the second routing key from the second computer message; and route, based on the second routing key, the second computer message to the hardware queue of the message platform such that a hardware platform that is a customer of the second queue i) receives the second computer message and ii) automatically removes a service profile from the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the second computer message generated at the virtualization platform.
This invention relates to a system for dynamically provisioning and decommissioning computer components in a networked environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently managing the lifecycle of computer components, including their removal from network clusters while ensuring proper cleanup of associated configurations and profiles. The system includes a message platform with a processor and memory, connected to a message generator. The message platform uses an advanced message queue exchange to receive and route messages between different computer systems. When a computer component needs to be decommissioned, the message generator sends a first message to the exchange, specifying the network cluster, environment, and action parameter (indicating removal). The message also includes a routing key that directs it to a virtualization queue. The virtualization platform, which monitors this queue, processes the message by selecting and evacuating the host profile from the component, shutting it down, and removing DHCP reservations and auto-deploy rules. After completing these steps, the virtualization platform generates a second message with updated details and a new routing key, directing it to a hardware queue. The hardware platform, which monitors this queue, processes the second message by removing the service profile associated with the computer component. This ensures that all configurations and dependencies are properly cleaned up, allowing the component to be safely decommissioned from the network. The system automates the decommissioning process, reducing manual intervention and potential errors.
6. A system in accordance with claim 5 , wherein the computer component is a blade server.
A system for managing computer components in a data center environment addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring and controlling diverse hardware configurations. The system includes a central management module that communicates with multiple computer components, such as servers, storage devices, or networking equipment, to collect operational data and execute commands. The management module is designed to interface with different types of computer components, ensuring compatibility across various hardware platforms. In this specific configuration, the system incorporates a blade server as one of the computer components. Blade servers are modular, high-density computing units that share power, cooling, and networking resources within a blade enclosure. The system monitors the blade server's performance metrics, such as temperature, power consumption, and workload, and can remotely manage its operations, including power cycling or firmware updates. By integrating blade servers into the system, the solution optimizes space utilization and simplifies maintenance in data centers. The system may also include additional features like automated alerts for hardware failures or predictive maintenance based on collected data. This approach enhances scalability and reduces operational overhead in large-scale computing environments.
7. A non-transitory computer readable medium that includes computer executable instructions for dynamically provisioning computer components, wherein when executed by a message platform comprising a processor, the computer executable instructions cause the message platform to: receive, at an advanced message queue exchange of the message platform, a first computer message from the message generator indicating that a computer component should be commissioned, wherein the first computer message includes i) a network cluster to which the computer component should be added, ii) an environment for the computer component, iii) an action parameter indicating that the computer component should be added, and iv) a first routing key associated with a hardware queue of the message platform, and wherein the advanced message queue exchange is operable to receive and route computer messages between a plurality of computer systems; identify, at the advanced message queue exchange, the first routing key from the first computer message; route, based on the first routing key, the first computer message to the hardware queue of the message platform such that a hardware platform that is a customer of the first queue i) receives the first computer message and ii) automatically installs a service profile on the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the first computer message; receive, at the advanced message queue exchange, a second computer message from the hardware platform, the second computer message generated at the hardware platform and including i) the network cluster, ii) the environment, iii) the action parameter, and iv) a second routing key associated with a virtualization queue of the message platform; identify, at the advanced message queue exchange, the second routing key from the second computer message; route, based on the second routing key, the second computer message to the virtualization queue of the message platform such that a virtualization platform that is a customer of the virtualization queue i) receives the second computer message and ii) automatically installs a host profile on the computer component based on the network cluster, the environment, and the action parameter in the second computer message generated at the hardware platform; receive, at the advanced message queue exchange, a third computer message from the virtualization platform, the third computer message generated at the virtualization platform; and route the third computer message to the hardware queue of the message platform such that the hardware platform receives the third computer message, wherein the third computer message generated by the virtualization platform instructs the hardware platform to automatically power on the computer component.
This invention relates to dynamic provisioning of computer components in a distributed system using a message-based architecture. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently commissioning and configuring hardware and virtualization components across network clusters and environments. A message platform with an advanced message queue exchange facilitates communication between a message generator, hardware platform, and virtualization platform. The process begins when the message generator sends a first computer message to the exchange, specifying the target network cluster, environment, an action parameter (e.g., "add"), and a routing key linked to a hardware queue. The exchange routes this message to the hardware platform, which automatically installs a service profile on the computer component based on the provided parameters. The hardware platform then sends a second message to the exchange, including the same cluster, environment, and action parameter, along with a routing key for a virtualization queue. The exchange forwards this to the virtualization platform, which installs a host profile on the component. Finally, the virtualization platform sends a third message back to the hardware queue, instructing the hardware platform to power on the component. This automated, message-driven workflow ensures coordinated provisioning across hardware and virtualization layers.
8. A non-transitory computer readable medium in accordance with claim 7 , wherein the computer component is a blade server.
A system for managing computer components, particularly blade servers, in a data center environment. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently monitoring and controlling blade servers to optimize performance, reduce downtime, and improve resource allocation. The invention includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, perform operations to manage blade servers. These operations involve detecting the presence of a blade server, determining its operational status, and dynamically adjusting its configuration based on real-time data. The system also monitors power consumption, thermal conditions, and network traffic to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, it provides remote management capabilities, allowing administrators to troubleshoot and reconfigure blade servers without physical access. The system integrates with existing data center management tools to streamline operations and enhance scalability. By automating routine tasks and providing actionable insights, the invention improves operational efficiency and reduces manual intervention, leading to cost savings and improved reliability in data center environments.
9. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the service profile includes a network configuration for the computer component, component definition data for the computer component, and a MAC address for the computer component.
A method for managing computer components in a networked system addresses the challenge of efficiently configuring and identifying hardware components within a distributed computing environment. The method involves generating and utilizing a service profile for each computer component, which contains essential configuration and identification data. The service profile includes a network configuration that defines how the component connects to the network, component definition data that specifies the hardware or functional characteristics of the component, and a MAC address that uniquely identifies the component within the network. This structured approach ensures consistent deployment, simplifies troubleshooting, and enables automated management of hardware resources. The method supports dynamic adjustments to network settings and component definitions, allowing for flexible adaptation to changing system requirements. By centralizing these details in a service profile, the system reduces manual configuration errors and streamlines the integration of new or replacement components. The inclusion of a MAC address ensures accurate tracking and communication with each component, enhancing network reliability and security. This approach is particularly useful in large-scale deployments where managing individual hardware configurations manually would be impractical.
10. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the host profile includes hardware configuration details necessary for a hypervisor to be installed on the computer component.
A method for managing hypervisor installation on computer components involves generating and utilizing a host profile that includes detailed hardware configuration information. The host profile contains specifications required for a hypervisor to be installed on a computer component, such as processor type, memory capacity, storage configuration, and other hardware attributes. This method ensures that the hypervisor is compatible with the underlying hardware, preventing installation failures or performance issues. The host profile may also include firmware settings, driver requirements, and security configurations to optimize hypervisor operation. By standardizing hardware details in the profile, the method enables automated deployment and validation of hypervisors across multiple systems, reducing manual configuration errors and improving system reliability. The approach is particularly useful in data centers and cloud environments where consistent hypervisor installations are critical for virtualization management. The method may further include steps to verify hardware compatibility before installation and to update the host profile dynamically as hardware changes occur. This ensures ongoing compatibility and performance optimization for virtualized environments.
11. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the second computer message generated at the hardware platform specifies a MAC address and distinguished name for the computer component.
A method for managing computer components in a networked system addresses the challenge of uniquely identifying and tracking hardware components across distributed environments. The method involves generating a first computer message at a hardware platform, where this message includes a unique identifier for a computer component. The method then generates a second computer message at the same hardware platform, which specifies both a MAC address and a distinguished name for the computer component. The MAC address provides a hardware-level identifier, while the distinguished name offers a structured, human-readable identifier. This dual-identification approach ensures accurate tracking and management of the component within the network, particularly in scenarios where multiple identifiers are required for security, inventory, or operational purposes. The method may also include transmitting these messages to a central management system for further processing, such as validation, logging, or configuration updates. By combining MAC address and distinguished name in the second message, the system enhances reliability and reduces ambiguity in component identification.
12. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the second computer message generated at the hardware platform causes the virtualization platform to: create a dynamic host configuration protocol for the computer component; install a virtualization host on the computer component; and add an auto deploy rule to the computer component.
This invention relates to virtualization platform management, specifically automating the setup and configuration of computer components within a virtualized environment. The method addresses the challenge of manually configuring hardware platforms for virtualization, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. The solution involves generating a second computer message at a hardware platform to trigger automated setup processes. The message instructs the virtualization platform to create a dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) for the computer component, ensuring network connectivity and IP address assignment. Additionally, the message installs a virtualization host on the computer component, enabling it to function as a host for virtual machines or containers. Finally, the message adds an auto-deploy rule to the computer component, automating the deployment of virtualized workloads based on predefined criteria. This streamlines the provisioning process, reduces manual intervention, and ensures consistent configuration across multiple components. The method is particularly useful in data centers and cloud environments where rapid and scalable deployment of virtualized resources is required.
13. A method in accordance with claim 12 , wherein, once the computer component is automatically powered on by the hardware platform in response to the third computer message generated by the virtualization platform, the computer component: receives dynamic host configuration protocol data; boots based on the received dynamic host configuration protocol data; applies the host profile installed by the virtualization platform; and joins the network cluster in accordance with the auto deploy rule added by the virtualization platform.
This invention relates to automated deployment and management of computer components within a network cluster. The problem addressed is the manual effort required to configure and integrate new hardware into a virtualized computing environment, particularly in large-scale deployments where consistency and speed are critical. The method involves a hardware platform that automatically powers on a computer component in response to a message from a virtualization platform. Once powered on, the computer component receives Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) data, which provides network configuration details. Using this data, the component boots up and then applies a host profile that was previously installed by the virtualization platform. This profile includes settings and configurations specific to the network cluster. Finally, the component joins the network cluster by following an auto-deploy rule that was also added by the virtualization platform, ensuring seamless integration without manual intervention. The virtualization platform plays a key role by generating the initial message to power on the hardware, installing the host profile, and defining the auto-deploy rule. This automated process reduces deployment time, minimizes human error, and ensures consistent configuration across multiple components in the cluster. The method is particularly useful in data centers and cloud computing environments where rapid and scalable deployment of hardware resources is essential.
Unknown
March 17, 2020
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.